Naturally, backpacking involves carrying most of your belongings in a single backpack on your trip. It could be for a week, a month, a year, or longer – whatever period of time, it is vital to utilise the space in your pack to ensure you take everything you want and need.

Living out of a backpack

Here, I will discuss how to live out of a backpack for an extended period. Similar principles apply for trips of two to three weeks as they do for six months to a year. The size of your backpack is limited, and you won’t have as much space as in your wardrobe. Mo matter how long you are away, you will undoubtedly have some tough choices about what to take, and what to leave behind. 

This list is by no means exhaustive. It will include what I think are the essentials, that can be reasonably managed in one pack, and allow one to travel comfortably.

Be flexible

In packing your bag, as with travel in general, an open mind and pragmatic approach brings the most reward. Necessities must be first on the list. Leave behind items that offer excessive comfort, and superficial accessories – it will pay dividends in the long run.

Also, it is worth bearing in mind that you will be able to pick up items you need along the way. Or, if one item becomes redundant, you can sell it or give it away. So, you don’t need to fit everything in immediately – don’t worry about ensuring you have the perfect bag packed before you depart.

Clothing

Obviously, you need clothes, but being sensible with the amount of clothing and footwear you take means you won’t carry around extra weight. Ensure you take clothing for the appropriate climates in your destination. And prepare for a variety weather. For example, many tropical countries have hot climates with intense rain seasons. Take a decent waterproof coat along with your shorts and t-shirts.

Packing for colder temperatures means bulkier clothing, and less available space. With less outfits, you will need to wash your clothes more often. In warmer countries, you might be able to pack more outfits, and you’ll need them. Even short walks in the hot sun may leave you drenched in sweat. Fear not, launderettes are commonplace in travel-friendly countries – a quick visit to one is preferable to carrying extra luggage.

My mum’s old trick for saving space in a bag was to roll up clothes – it works for me. Plus, the clothes don’t crease as much. Shoes and hiking boots use up considerable space in your pack. Again, only take what is required for the trip. Hiking shoes, a pair of trainers that offer support for walking, and sandals, are usually enough for me.

Water

Travelling can be draining, physically, so pay attention to your body’s needs – for water and food. Never underestimate the importance of keeping hydrated. The excitement of travelling, discovering new places, and meeting new people can distract from our most basic needs. Carrying water is even more vital when in hotter countries.

When city-hopping, rehydrating will be easier. For long bus or train journeys in between, I would recommend capacity for at least one litre of water. If you are going on a long hike, a couple of litres is a minimum requirement. For long trips into the wilderness, you might need more – if you are able to carry it. If not, take water purification tablets and find yourself a local or natural. Research beforehand to ensure you only drink water that is safe.

Money

I suggest storing money in several locations. Put in your wallet or purse the money you need for the day. Depending on how cautious you are of your safety, or how concerned you are about your fashion, a bumbag is a worthy investment. For my first backpacking trip, I had one which was small enough to tuck-in behind my t-shirt. Although I hear they are coming back as a fashion trend, it’s not an item I would choose to display – it also served its purpose by hiding my money and bank card. Lastly, keep spare cash in a discreet pocket in your backpack, or below your bulkier items. Just make sure you remember where it is – and keep your bag close to you.

The point of keeping money in several locations is to avoid the scenario where you lose your wallet, and you have no more money on you. With modern technology, cash may not be as widely used as in the past. I would be surprised if there weren’t many occasions you still need it, though – if you lost your phone, for example. Cash is a dependable back-up plan.

Toiletries

I am fortunate in that the amount of cosmetic goods I carry is minimal. Beyond a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and a shaver, I can go without much else if necessary. I appreciate that won’t suffice for others.

My advice to those looking to pack many items into their pack – look into your future, let’s say, two months into your trip, when you have limited space available, and you are attempting to squeeze everything into your bag for the umpteenth time – are you glad you brought all those items, or could you have been more ruthless with your inventory to being with?

First-aid

Buy a ready-made first-aid kit. Sure, for serious accidents, you won’t be reaching for this tiny kit at the bottom of your backpack. Still, it’s a small addition which, again, is a good backup to have. I suggest; plasters – of various sizes, bandages, anti-bacterial wipes, painkillers or anti-inflammatories, Imodium, cotton buds, and tweezers (for splinters and suchlike).

Another point to make regarding health is to research diseases in the country you are visiting. There are vaccines available for many diseases, as well as tablets for malaria. Take steps to avoid mosquito bites – wear-loose clothing – and use spray. I hear there are many natural alternatives, which would be worth listening out for.

What else

That might be for you to decide, based on your needs, wants, or desires. It is a learning curve, as you will discover for yourself along the way.

As always, I welcome feedback from seasoned travellers, tell me what items you deem essential based on your experiences!